Why Zambia is Looking for Tech Investment

 
Zambia is working to attract technology investment to diversify its economy, expand digital infrastructure, and create jobs for a young population. The country has relied on mining, especially copper exports, for decades. That is changing as politicians place more emphasis on digital industries.
Recent initiatives from the government and private sector show a push to make Zambia more competitive in technology and digital services. From artificial intelligence projects to fintech expansion, the signs are that technology will play a bigger role in economic growth.
Building on mining economy
Mining is the backbone of Zambia’s economy. Global demand for copper has surged because it is important for renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and digital infrastructure. This has strengthened Zambia’s economic outlook and attracted international attention to its resources.
However, officials have highlighted the importance of expanding other sectors alongside mining. Technology is seen as a key area where Zambia can develop new industries and jobs.
Mining companies, logistics providers, and agricultural producers use digital systems to track operations, manage data, and improve efficiency.
For policymakers, building a technology sector is not about replacing mining. President Hakainde Hichilema has said, “Africa needs to grow and for us to grow, the mining sector sits at the centre of this” but emphasized the importance of value addition. Technology can help create additional sources of economic activity to support long-term growth.
Government push for digitization
The Zambian government has framed digital transformation as a priority. Officials argue that stronger digital infrastructure and technology adoption can support economic expansion and make regional trade easier.
At the 2025 Digital Government Africa Summit in Lusaka, President Hichilema stressed that digitization is central to the country’s growth strategy. He said there was a need for a platform to accelerate growth, expand the economy, encourage investment, and trade. “For us to do that, we need digitization,” the President said.
The President also pointed to the role digital systems can play in reducing barriers to trade across Africa. He said at last year’s Ministerial E-Governmental Summit that the continent “bears a high cost” due to delays in the movement of goods.
A Mezzanine executive has said partnerships between governments and technology companies can help modernize digital infrastructure and support the rollout of government services on secure local platforms.
Digital infrastructure
Reliable connectivity is important for the country’s technology ambitions. Telecommunications providers have been expanding their networks in recent years to improve internet access across both urban and rural areas.
Telecom operators have invested in new infrastructure, including hundreds of additional network sites designed to strengthen coverage and increase data capacity. These investments are intended to support the rapid growth in smartphone use and mobile internet access.
Infrastructure development also includes data centers and cloud computing services that allow companies and government agencies to store and process information locally.
Improved data centers and connectivity facilitate government services but also support businesses and online entertainment platforms, including online casino games, which rely on strong connections.
Fintech and startups
Zambia’s fintech sector has expanded quickly in recent years. A 2023 study by the United Nations Capital Development Fund identified more than 57 fintech companies operating in the country, up from 25 firms recorded in 2018. This reflects both consumer demand and increasing interest from investors looking for opportunities in Africa.
Fintech companies offer digital lending, payment processing, remittance platforms, and business payment tools. Many platforms focus on people and small businesses that previously had limited access to traditional banking.
The startup ecosystem is also beginning to create employment opportunities. The Ministry of Technology and Science has reported that over 150 digital enterprises were registered within a year.
Why investors will pay attention
Several factors will likely attract technology investors to Zambia. The country has a young population, rising smartphone adoption, and demand for digital services.
Its location in southern Africa gives companies access to a wider regional market. Businesses operating in Zambia can potentially expand services to neighboring countries with similar digital needs.
The government has made technology a priority. National strategies emphasize digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and innovation as tools for economic development.
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